Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography And Infectious Keratitis: Diagnostic And Monitoring Significance: Experience From The Ophthalmology Department Of Chu Mohamed Vi, Marrakech

 This study aims to assess the utility of anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT) in the diagnosis and monitoring of infectious keratitis among patients treated at CHU Mohamed VI in Marrakech. By evaluating the effectiveness of OCT in characterizing corneal lesions and monitoring treatment response, this research seeks to provide valuable insights that can enhance the clinical management of infectious keratitis both locally and nationally.

The study was conducted at the Ophthalmology Department of CHU Mohamed VI in Marrakech, where a cohort of 163 patients with infectious keratitis was retrospectively reviewed over a three-year period. Marrakech, with its prevalence of infectious keratitis cases and unique clinical challenges, provided an ideal setting to investigate the clinical utility of anterior segment OCT in this context.

A retrospective review of medical records was performed for 163 patients diagnosed with infectious keratitis at CHU Mohamed VI. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and treatment outcomes were analyzed. The main imaging modality used for assessing corneal lesions was anterior segment OCT, which provided detailed visualization of corneal infiltrates and allowed for precise measurement of their depth and extent. Data analysis focused on evaluating the effectiveness of OCT in characterizing corneal lesions and monitoring treatment response.

Analysis of the data revealed that anterior segment OCT was highly effective in characterizing corneal lesions in patients with infectious keratitis. The majority of cases (98%) demonstrated clear visualization of corneal infiltrates using OCT, with sufficient spatial resolution to distinguish between different layers of the cornea. OCT also proved valuable in monitoring treatment response, with a progressive resolution of infiltrates observed in 85% of patients over time. These findings highlight the clinical utility of anterior segment OCT in the management of infectious keratitis.

In conclusion, anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT) represents a significant advancement in the diagnosis and management of infectious keratitis. Its use allows for precise and objective evaluation of corneal lesions, facilitating tailored therapeutic interventions and close monitoring of disease progression. While challenges remain, particularly regarding standardization of imaging protocols and clinician training, OCT offers considerable potential to enhance clinical and functional outcomes for patients with infectious keratitis.